AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Probionts : The first formed cells are called probionts or were considered as the aggregate of abiotically produced organic molecules surrounded by membranes. For example, Coacervates are the large spherical aggregate of macromolecules and Microspores are the colloidal aggregate of proteins considered as probionts.

Detailed explanation-2: -Note: It is to be remembered that protobionts were only able to replicate using nutrients from the surrounding external medium. It was not a proper procedure of reproduction, hence protobionts were considered as the precursor of cells but not the precursor of life.

Detailed explanation-3: -The first structure to arise in the prebiotic world that could be termed a protocell was the coacervate. This is a spherical membraneless microdroplet that can spontaneously arise from weak organic solutions.

Detailed explanation-4: -Protobionts show certain life-related features, including simple reproduction, metabolism and excitability, as well as maintaining an internal chemical environment that is different from that of their environment. They were a crucial step in the origin of life on earth, as it has been proposed.